Laelia purpurata

Gouache on cotton rag. 58 x 76cm

Laelia purpurata must be one of the most popular orchids in cultivation
around the world and is the State flower of Santa Catarina, Brazil and sometimes cited as the national flower of Brazil. The annual orchid show in Joinville attracted over 190,000 visitors in 2008 – just to see this one species. Nevertheless, in the wild, it is almost extinct although formerly more widespread, native to the regions of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. Although this painting was based on photos of plants growing in pots, I chose to imagine them growing in their natural epiphytic habit with from top, varieties tipo, carnea and flammea. Thanks to Yug, Allen and Mauro of OSF for the stunning photos which initially inspired this work.

SaleThe Original painting & a limited edition of 25 Giclée prints is available for sale, please contact for availability and price. Contact